Bike Helmet Use

In 2013/2014, 45.0% (39.3%, 50.3%) of Simcoe Muskoka aged 12 years and over reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike. This is similar to what was reported for Ontario (43.3% (41.9%, 44.7%). Since 2009/2010, the rate for bicycle helmet use locally and provincially have remained relatively stable.

By Sex

In Simcoe Muskoka for 2009 to 2014 combined, the percent of the population (12+) that reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike is significantly higher among females (53.1% (48.1%, 58.0%) compared with males (39.8% (35.5%, 44.3%). This was consistent with the pattern observed with the Ontario-level data.

By Age Group

The percentage of the population aged 12+ that almost or always wear a helmet when riding a bike varies by age group. In Simcoe Muskoka, the percentage of those aged 12 to 19 (57.6% (51.3%, 63.7%) that reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike is significantly higher when compared to those aged 20 to 44 (43.2% (38.3%, 48.2%) and 45 to 64 (40.8% (33.9%, 48.0%). In addition, the percentage of Simcoe Muskoka aged 12 to 19 that reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike is significantly higher when compared to Ontario for the same age group (48.4% (46.9%, 50.0%).

By Education and Income

Wearing a helmet when riding a bike is highest among those with higher levels of education and income. In both Simcoe Muskoka and Ontario, significantly more of the adult population (25-64) with a post-secondary education reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike compared to those with a high school education or less.

Additionally, significantly more of the population (12+) living in households in the top 20% (or 5th quintile) of income reported almost or always wearing a helmet when riding a bike compared with those in the bottom income quintile. This was consistent with the pattern observed with the Ontario-level data.